Nike Fagbule: Public Relations is an industry that is constantly evolving.

Nike Fagbule is a seasoned PR professional in Nigeria. In 2013, she founded Zebra Stripes Networks, an integrated marketing agency based in Lagos.

Over the years, her company has been able to focus on delivering quality service as well as contributing to the development of different economic sectors. They also offer their quota to Corporate Social Responsibility.

Nike’s triumph story is one that resonates round passion and commitment to what she does and she has inspired and empowered people along the line.

How do you distinguish your brand from other PR labels?

Zebra Stripes Networks (ZSN) is very hands on with client activities, especially those that relate to an interaction with their primary audience and the general public.

We are not a one size fits all company because all clients, even if they do business in the same industry, are inherently different. At ZSN, we tailor make strategies and techniques for each client.

What are some of the common issues/challenges in the PR industry?

Like every other industry, sourcing for efficient employees is a major challenge; a lot of people come to this job with no understanding of what is expected of them as a public relations specialist. Public relations is very challenging and requires that you’re great at multi-tasking. It is also an industry that is constantly evolving.

Some years ago, public relations in Nigeria was all about media relations -sending releases and monitoring media, but these days it has a lot to do with creating engaging stories and having your audience’s ear till you say I am done. It is no longer limited to traditional media. I’d need an entire interview simply dedicated to PR challenges.

If you were not doing PR, what would have been your next option?

I’d probably be a writer. It’s what I thought I’d be doing when I was a child.

What sacrifice have you made for your company to exist today?

Uncountable sleepless nights, a handful of friendships and conspicuous absences at family functions.

In the early days of ZSN I did not have weekends to myself and it was a couple of years before I could go on a vacation. I had to take a step back because eventually working non-stop is counterproductive in the long term.

Describe a day with Nike Fagbule.

When I wake up in the morning, the first thing I do is to read a Bible and book chapter. Then I exercise, check my emails for client alerts and then I go into the office.

I also watch a lot of American television so I find a way to infuse it into my day.

Which celebrity would you like to work for and why?

I’d like to just have a conversation with Shonda Rhimes and her publicist. Shonda is obviously not a celebrity so that probably doesn’t even count, but that would be goals for me.

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Tonye Setima-Benebo is a business development executive experienced in all aspects of sales and marketing communications. She also has a strong interest in women empowerment and gender equality. She is a yoga lover and enjoys listening to music from all around the world.